Speak Softly (carry a big stick)
Curated by Danielle Fusco.
Featuring the works of Briana Woolliams, Deborah Worthy-Collins, Luisa Hansal, and Talia Smith.
The age-old proverb “speak softly and carry a big stick” refers to the idea that one should negotiate peacefully while having the means to act with force if necessary. Danielle Fusco applies this saying to the human experience of navigating contemporary life, which takes on added significance in 2020. In this re-contextualised space, this saying reinforces that sensitivity is not synonymous with being weak and vulnerability doesn’t need external justification but is a strength in and of itself. 'Speak softly (carry a big stick)' shares intensely personal stories that explore the impact of life experience on one’s identity, thoughts, actions, and perceived place in the world. Through emotionally charged, tactile, poetic, and process-driven works, this exhibition invites you to examine the universality of the human experience, emotional thresholds, and themes of intimacy in gentle yet powerful and evocative ways.